Muslims who vandalised Hindu temple attacked Hindus again after they were released on bail

• Incident at a village in Gariaband, Dist Chhattisgarh

• Six Police personnel injured

Raipur (Chhattisgarh): Tension flared in Dudhkaiya village of Gariaband district on the evening of 1 February, when some Muslim accused who were released on bail, assaulted local Hindu residents. Police intervened to control the situation and reportedly carried out lathi- charge. Six police personnel were injured during the violence.

Background of  temple vandalism case

According to police sources, about four months ago, a Shiva temple in the same area was allegedly vandalised and desecrated. Fingeshwar police had arrested the accused at the time and sent them to judicial custody.

After securing bail, the accused reportedly returned to the village and allegedly attacked the complainants and other residents. Police stated that the main accused, identified as Arif, along with two associates, was involved in the assault. The attackers were said to be armed and allegedly beat several villagers brutally. Some youths were reportedly attacked with stones and iron rods.

The violence subsequently escalated, with groups targeting each other’s houses. Several homes and vehicles were set ablaze during the clashes.

On receiving information about the incident, the Superintendent of Police reached the scene. Additional forces from nearby police stations have been deployed in the village.  There is a curfew-like situation in the village, and the administration has appealed to the residents to maintain peace.

Editorial perspectives

• Hindus feel that such incidents should not happen when BJP is power in Chhattisgarh.
• It was a mistake to release the accused on bail. The accused should now be tried in fast-track courts and sentenced for life imprisonment.